Hurrah for 'Rocky'

COEUR d'ALENE - Enjoy an entertaining evening while raising money to benefit elk, other wildlife and their habitat.

That's the promise of a Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation fundraiser banquet and auction slated for March 31 at The Best Western Coeur d'Alene Inn.

The evening begins with a cocktail social at 5 p.m. and dinner at 6:30 p.m., followed by a live auction for world-class wildlife art, firearms, unique collectibles and more.

Featured prizes at the upcoming event include a 2012 Banquet Edition Knife by Browning, a 2012 Banquet Edition Rifle Set by Browning and a 2012 Professional Bull Riders World Finals Package for two in Las Vegas.

"We promise a great time for a great cause," said Brad Hogeweide of Coeur d'Alene, who volunteers with a local committee of conservationists to host the annual event. "This is the 23rd annual banquet that we've hosted here in Coeur d'Alene, and we're proud of our continuing support for the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation's conservation work across the country."

Since 1984, the organization has enhanced or conserved more than 5.8 million acres of habitat - nearly all on public lands - for elk and other wildlife. More than 600,000 acres have been opened for public access including hunting, fishing and other recreation.

Additionally, wild elk populations have been restored in parts of their former range such as Kentucky, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Arkansas.

Tickets are $70 per person, $105 per couple, and $15 for youth age 10 and under. Each single and couple ticket includes a yearly membership and magazine subscription from the conservation organization. Additionally, one Buck PakLite Skinner Knife by Buck Knives will be included with each new and renewing membership attending the banquet.

For ticket information and reservations: Hogeweide, 818-5206 or email, [email protected].